Welcome to The Gifford School
Gifford is a non-profit, coeducational, therapeutic day school in Weston, Massachusetts. Established in 1964 (originally in Cambridge), we serve approximately 100 students from within a 50 mile radius. Gifford balances educational and clinical approaches to foster students' talents and strengths and address their individual needs.
Gifford students have complicated learning challenges and require a small classroom setting and individualized therapeutic and academic support services to achieve their learning potential. Our students have not had success in more typical learning environments; students come to Gifford with emotional issues that complicate their ability to learn optimally.
Our students experience high levels of anxiety related to the academic and social demands of the school day. Some students have difficulty with controlling their emotions, and they may experience sadness, or need support communicating their needs effectively. Many of our students need support and guidance related to making and maintaining positive social relationships. These many challenges have left students with lowered self-esteem and the need for a supportive learning environment that focuses on identifying each student's strengths, developing coping strategies and building a strong sense of community.
With the support of our skilled staff, students work daily to overcome obstacles created by learning, behavioral, emotional, and social difficulties. Our goal is to create a community that is grounded in respect for individual differences and that values the contributions of all of our students.
For more information, please contact Kristi Penman, Admissions Director or by phone at 781-899-9500 x1026.